IPE Student Perspectives

"...realizing all the ways that being abroad can be just like home and be completely different at the same time."

- Julie Waggoner, France 2007

Homestay: a home away from home

One word...Amazing! My host mother had hosted exchange students before so she was very good about speaking slowly, correcting me in a positive way and making sure I understood what was going on. Plus, on top of that, she introduced me to my host grandma and my host cousins who all acted as if I had been part of the family for years. I truly became part of the family and I still stay in contact with them; probably always will.

- Emily Dayton, Costa Rica 2007

International education

No words can express it, you need to experience it! It changes your whole outlook on the world.

- Maggie Presby, France 2007

It opens your eyes in a way you never thought was possible. It is easy to believe that other countries have different views, cultures, beliefs, traditions, and ways of life; but the only way to fully comprehend this is by immersing oneself in the culture of another country and being willing to learn the ways of people different than yourself. The values, ideas, and different ways of thinking about the world simply cannot be reproduced in the U.S, and by interacting with Australians on a daily basis, I learned a lot about myself and my view of the world changed.

- Heather Fontenot, Australia 2007

Most memorable experiences

.Being with so many other people from around the world learning Spanish.

- Gabrielle Wall, Argentina 2007

I learned how to cook sheep brains with a friend from Guineau, I played pick-up soccer games with French natives every Sunday, I hiked along the Mediterranean coast, I completely stopped watching television, I spent lots of time watching soccer matches in bars.....Oh yeah, and I learned how to speak French more fluently.

- Travis Watt, France 2007

Getting out and exploring

One of my best experiences was when I traveled with the two guys in my group to Jaiselmer. We went on a guided camel safari through the Thar Desert. We camped under the stars for two nights, ate meals cooked over the fire, and explored the rolling sand dunes. This was an independent trip that we planned ourselves, and it was my favorite.

- Shawna Leader, India 2007

Insight for future study abroad students

Leave your biased thoughts behind, because you will miss SO MUCH if you don't.

- Virginia Nix, China 2007

Travel is amazing, and even when it's rough, it's a learning experience that is worthwhile. I learned so much on my travels about myself, and an entirely different culture. India is a beautiful place if one can learn to see beyond the obstacles.

- Shawna Leader, India 2007

Making the most out of studying abroad

Be open to anyone and anything, because often the people you would normally ignore and the things you normally wouldn't do end up being the most exciting parts of your trip. With an open mind and eagerness to travel and experience other cultures and environments, you will be sure to have a blast!

- Heather Fontenot, Australia 2007

Other advice

Whether it is the most exciting time of your life, or a challenge you will never regret opening yourself up to a new culture and new perspective on the world is priceless.

- Jerrod Gonzales, Australia 2007